Understanding how to choose a summer day camp can feel overwhelming for busy parents. After all, you want to ensure your children are in a safe, fun, and enriching environment. But what should you look for, specifically? And once you’ve chosen a program, what does an ideal summer day camp packing list look like?
At Camps ‘R’ Us, we’ve provided children ages 3 and up with meaningful and memorable summer experiences for decades. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best camp, what to pack every day, and how to go about preparing your children for camp.
Keep reading to get started!
How to Choose a Summer Camp
Choosing a summer day camp is a big decision, especially if your child hasn’t been to one before. Where there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, the best summer day camps are those that align with your child’s interests, personality, and developmental needs.
Here are some things to consider:
- Age and Readiness: Some camps, like Camps ‘R’ Us, offer specialized early childhood programs that can help young children develop in areas like motor skills and socialization. Other programs for grade-school children are more activity-centered, while tween and teen programs are focused on field trips.
- Schedule and Location: Flexibility and convenience matter, especially for busy families. Make sure to look at camp hours, session lengths, and pickup and drop-off logistics.
- Philosophy and Values: Different camps have different cultures, so ensure you select one that is intentional about its missionand has a long-standing reputation for excellence.
- Staffing and Safety: Summer camp leadership staff should have extensive experience with children, and ample training should be provided for camp counselors. You’ll also want to look for a low camper-to-counselor ratio and ensure emergency protocols are in place.
Camps ‘R’ Us Programs
At Camps ‘R’ Us, we understand that children of different ages need different things to grow and have fun. We offer several fun and educational programs that can accommodate preschoolers, , elementary schoolers, and middle schoolers alike.
Tiny Tots
Have a youngster that you want to ensure is in good hands? The Tiny Tots® early childhood program at Camps ‘R’ Us offers a nurturing space for nursery and preschool-aged children to grow, play, and discover.
Each day, children enjoy structured play, engaging activities, and hands-on learning opportunities that spark curiosity and build foundational skills. Arts and crafts, dance, and cooperative sports are some of the many activities campers partake in.
Led by experienced early childhood educators, Tiny Tots fosters a supportive atmosphere that prioritizes each child’s social, emotional, and developmental needs. The curriculum takes a aspirational approach to learning, allowing campers to explore their world at their own pace.
Eligibility: Campers must be at least 3 years old, fully toilet-trained, and not yet have completed Kindergarten.
Campers
For children in Kindergarten through 4th grade, the Campers program at Camps ‘R’ Us offers a vibrant summer experience that inspires growth, creativity, and friendship.
Throughout the program, campers participate in a full schedule of 35-minute rotating activities. Highlights include arts and crafts, sports, splash zone, and more, with off-campus experiences like swimming and optional field trips adding further fun.
The Campers program groups children by the grade they’ve just completed.
Each group is led by a Group Leader, and supported by Counselors, Jr. Counselors, and Counselors-in-Training, ensuring a safe and well-supervised environment. This grade-based programming ensures the activities grow with your child as they develop new physical, social, emotional, and intellectual skills.
Explorers
Campers enrolled in 5th through 8th grade can sign up for the Explorers® Trip and Travel program. Combining the excitement of off-campus travel with classic summer camp fun, the program lets campers enjoy three off-campus trips each week. From amusement parks to museums and adventure centers, these visits are included in the cost of tuition and promise an unforgettable time for campers.
Families can choose from three scheduling options:
- 3-day program (Tues/Wed/Thurs): “Trips-only” option
- 4-day program: Monday-Thursday or Tuesday-Friday
- 5-day full week: Trips plus on-campus fun
Whether they’re navigating a ropes course or performing in a talent show, campers in the Explorers program build confidence, teamwork, and lifelong friendships.
What to Pack for Summer Day Camp
Creating a summer day camp packing list doesn’t need to be overwhelming. While we provide many of the essentials, there are a few items every camper should bring to stay comfortable and prepared.
Daily Essentials:
- Backpack (provided by Camps ‘R’ Us)
- Reusable water bottle (also provided)
- Packed lunch in a labeled paper or reusable bag
- Two snacks are provided daily, but alternatives can be sent for dietary needs
Clothing:
- Comfortable clothes: T-shirt, shorts, socks, and closed-toe sneakers
- Official Camps ‘R’ Us t-shirt for off-campus travel days
- Swimsuit and beach towel
- Water shoes or old sneakers for water activities
- Plastic bag for storing wet items
Tiny Tots Only:
- Extra t-shirt
- Shorts
- Socks
- Two pairs of underwear
Looking for additional info on what to bring? Download our free First Timer’s Guide to learn more.
Preparing Children for Camp
First-day jitters are common, but one of the best ways to mitigate them is by discussing what to expect with your child. Take the time to go over the daily routine, activities, and packing list together. Visiting a Camps ‘R’ Us Open House beforehand can also help you understand the space and activities your child will partake in.
For younger campers, you’ll want to practice applying sunscreen, dressing independently, and using the bathroom solo.
Most importantly, for social and emotional preparation for camp, let your child know it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. However, with time, they’ll see that camp is a safe, welcoming place where they’ll have fun, make friends, and gain confidence.
An Unforgettable Summer at Camps ‘R’ Us
The right summer camp offers parents peace of mind and lasting memories for children. At Camps ‘R’ Us, we pride ourselves on creating safe and supportive environments where children can grow, explore, and have fun. Whether you have a toddler developing motor skills or a middle schooler hoping to make new friendships, our programs can help ensure every camper thrives.
Ready to get started? Enroll your child today for the best summer ever at Camps ‘R’ Us! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for camp updates, photos, and tips for making your child’s summer unforgettable.